Nestled on the route to Khải Định Tomb, Trúc Lâm Pagoda is not merely a serene sanctuary amidst lush greenery but also a significant historical Buddhist site in Hue. It once served as the first center for the Buddhist revival movement in Central Vietnam, imbued with profound cultural and spiritual values.
Overview of Truc Lam Pagoda
Initially, Trúc Lâm Pagoda was a small worshiping place built by nun Diệu Trường, the cousin of Prince Tùng Thiện, in 1902. In 1903, at nun Diệu Trường’s invitation, Most Venerable Giác Tiên and a disciple of Most Venerable Tâm Tịnh from Tay Thien Pagoda took charge of the pagoda. Prior to this, they visited Trúc Lâm Yên Tử Pagoda in the north to collect Buddhist texts and ritual items. Upon their return, Most Venerable Giác Tiên named the pagoda Trúc Lâm Đại Thánh Tự, referencing the connection to the Trúc Lâm Zen sect in Yên Tử and Trúc Lâm Tịnh Xá. Most Venerable Giác Tiên became the first abbot.
In 1926, Most Venerable Giác Tiên renovated the Buddha worshipping hall and the monks’ living quarters. By 1928, Trúc Lâm Pagoda was known as a training center for talented monks. In 1931, Most Venerable Giác Tiên pioneered the Buddhist revival movement and called for the establishment of the Annam Buddhist Studies Society. In 1932, Emperor Bảo Đại approved the society, with its first headquarters located at Trúc Lâm Pagoda. In 1933, Emperor Bảo Đại bestowed the title “Trúc Lâm Đại Thánh Tự” upon the pagoda.
In 1935, Most Venerable Giác Tiên and his disciple Mật Khế founded the Annam Buddhist Studies Society at the pagoda, admitting 50 trainees. At the end of that year, highly qualified trainees attended the first higher education class ever held in Central Vietnam. Disciples of Most Venerable Giác Tiên, such as monks Mật Khế, Mật Hiển, Mật Nguyện, Mật Thể, and Lê Đình Thám, played significant roles in the subsequent Buddhist revival movement. Most Venerable Giác Tiên passed away in 1936.
Trúc Lâm Pagoda is situated on a hill planted with various trees like pines and bamboos. A stream flows in a south-north direction, creating a peaceful ambiance. In 1960, Most Venerable Mật Hiển, the abbot at the time, had an S-shaped lake dug in front of the pagoda gate, with a path built around it. Bamboo and willow trees were planted along both sides, providing a tranquil space for meditation. The total area of the pagoda is approximately 30,000m2, with structures arranged in a traditional 口 shape facing southeast.
Reflecting Most Venerable Giác Tiên’s interest in collecting Buddhist sacred objects, the pagoda still preserves valuable antiques such as an embroidered Diamond Sutra from the Tây Sơn dynasty, an alms bowl made of cinnabar, a statue of Most Venerable Thích Đại Sán, and an incense burner from the Mạc dynasty with the reign title Chính Hòa (1680 – 1704).
How to get to Truc Lam Pagoda
Address: Vo Van Kiet street, Thuy Xuan, Hue city
Trúc Lâm Pagoda is just one of the fascinating destinations in Hue. Let huesmiletravel help you fully explore the beauty of the ancient capital!
